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Tri Cities Sunrise Rotary reviews C3 Slam event, fundraising and possible temporary relocation
Summary
Tri Cities Sunrise Rotary reported event metrics for C3 Slam (3-on-3 tournament), noted fundraising for cataract surgeries and local housing seed funds, and said construction on George Washington Way may force a temporary move of the event location.
Terri Fleischman, Tri Cities Sunrise Rotary public-relations director, presented an overview of C3 Slam — an annual 3-on-3 basketball fundraiser held in Richland since 2016 that supports cataract surgeries abroad and local charities.
Fleischman said the event typically attracts more than 3,500 participants over the weekend, operates 22 courts and 22 age divisions, and relies on a large volunteer corps (she estimated 1,200–1,500 volunteer hours). Registration pricing tiers this year included a $100 early-bird special, $140 mid-window and $165 late registration. Major sponsors include TRIQ (about $15,000 annually) and in-kind support from Sunbelt (~$15,000).
Fleischman highlighted that proceeds also support local projects, citing a $125,000 contribution to a local tiny-homes effort led by Elijah Holmes. She raised operational concerns about heat and village-level logistics and said the event may need to relocate away from John Dam Plaza during construction on George Washington Way; city staff Julie and others confirmed staff and the Rotary are scouting North of Simons and other green spaces as potential multi-year temporary sites.
The commission heard suggestions about altering daily schedules to reduce heat exposure (morning/evening play with a midday break) but Fleischman said splitting play would create logistical and referee challenges. The commission and staff said they will continue to coordinate with the Rotary on alternate sites and safety measures.
Next steps: Rotary and city staff will evaluate potential temporary locations and finalize operational plans for 2026, including heat mitigation measures and volunteer support.
